Citizen Watches Buying Guide

For those who want a respected watch brand with a reputation for producing technologically advanced timepieces, Citizen is a great option. When choosing a watch that will last you a lifetime you want to make sure you know everything you need to before going ahead and purchasing, and our buying guide will do just that.

Want to learn more about the brand and its history? Jump to our Citizen watches history section. Need help deciding on a watch movement? Skip ahead to choosing the right movement. Want something with some added glamour? The Citizen and precious stones segment details some of our favourites. For some extra considerations, go straight to our things to consider section.

And if you’re ready to browse the full range, shop Citizen now to make your choice.

Citizen Watches History

Before we jump straight into the technicalities, let’s take a look at the history of Citizen watches.

Firstly, Citizen was established in May 1930, with the first wristwatch completed in June 1931, but where and who makes Citizen watches?

Where are Citizen watches made?

Citizen make all the components of their watches in-house in Japan - from integrated circuits to mechanical components, the cases, hands and everything in between. They don’t have any manufacturing facilities outside of Japan, they even make the machines that make the parts!

Citizen Watches

Citizen watches made for him

When Citizen was first founded in 1930 they manufactured men’s watches only for several years, starting with the first complete wristwatch in 1931. In the early 1950s, the first 6-beat caliber was completed as well as Japan’s first men’s wristwatch fitted with a date display – also known as ‘Citizen Calendar’.

They went on to create the first shockproof Japanese watch (Parashock), the first automatic winding watch, the first manual winding alarm caliber and the first water-resistant wristwatch.

The 1960s saw Citizen introduce an officially certified chronometer and the world's thinnest men's wristwatch with center seconds, as well as Japan's first electronically regulated balance wristwatch.

The 1970s was when Citizen started to move towards quartz movement. However, they didn’t completely move away from mechanical movements during this time. They introduced the world’s first titanium-cased watch and in 1974 they introduced solar-powered movement.

The 1980s saw Citizen release their 1300m professional diver’s watch and the world’s first watch fitted with a depth gauge. In 1986, Citizen became the world’s largest single manufacturer of watch movements.In the 1990s, Citizen launched the Analog-Aqualand which was the first quartz watch with an analog depth gauge. They also introduced the Eco-Drive movement which fastly became their number one seller.

In the present day, Citizen is one of the best known, biggest selling and most technologically advanced watch manufactures in the world.

Citizen watches made for her

Citizen created the first ladies’ watch in November of 1980 which was fitted with the world’s smallest volume movement, and since then there’s been a whole range of different series.

From the Citizen Axiom for a simple yet stylish watch, to partnering with Disney to create a series that’s both elegant and playful, they have so many exciting women’s lines to shop from.

The Citizen Ladies’ Eco-Drive models are much loved and continue to remain popular. These watches feature a variety of bold and distinctive designs and are available in a range of strap styles including stainless steel, gold-plated and leather so you can choose the perfect style for you.

citizen eco drive

Citizen Eco-Drive

Citizen Eco-Drive watches are a revolution in watchmaking. By harnessing energy from both artificial and natural light, these timepieces reduce the need to dispose of used batteries. In fact, in North America alone, Eco-Drive watches have stopped an estimated 10 million batteries from going to landfill.

In a similar way to how we would charge our phones or electric cars, Citizen Eco-Drive watches store energy in a rechargeable cell. So how long do Citizen Eco-Drive watches last? Well, Citizen claim a lifespan of 10 years for the solar elements used in their watches

Things to consider

If you’ve chosen your Citizen watch, then now it’s time to purchase. But before you do, here are some things you should consider.

ciztien watches

Budgeting and finance for your Citizen watch

When buying a Citizen watch you don’t have to pay out the full cost all in one go. Here at H.Samuel we offer interest-free credit for up to 3 years which is perfect if you are on a budget or looking to spread the cost over a manageable time frame.

Please note this is subject to credit status.

Try before you buy...

If you’d prefer to try a Citizen watch before deciding to purchase, you can book an appointment at your local H.Samuel store where our advisors can help you whether you have any questions or need some expert advice to help you make your decision.

Long-term watch care

To get the very most out of your Citizen watch you’ll want to make sure you take care of it. After all, it’s going to be worn almost every day and can last a lifetime with the right care. From cleaning your watch to servicing it regularly and reading your watch guide, there are several ways you can keep your timepiece in good condition.

Here at H.Samuel we offer an in-store watch repair service to give your watch a refresh. Our service includes everything from replacing worn or broken straps, to repairing bracelets clasps and general servicing.

Explore the Citizen range

Shop online

Looking for inspiration? Browse our Citizen watches and find the perfect one for you.

Shop in-store

If you prefer to see the real thing before making a purchase, you can head into your local store where one of our friendly advisors will be able to help you find the perfect Citizen watch.

citizen eco drive watch